2018 Chevy Spark Review
Get More For Your Trade-In
Edmunds' Expert Review
- Impressive number of features at an affordable price
- Offers many optional high-tech features
- High fuel economy
- Easy to park in tight spaces
- Acceleration is slow, both for the class and in general
- Not much rear legroom and cargo capacity
What’s new
Vehicle overview
Subcompacts appeal to the practical and budget-conscience. They're inexpensive, frugal and, most important for city dwellers, easy to park. The 2018 Chevrolet Spark has all those traits but also adds a healthy list of standard and optional features to the mix.
Even in its most basic LS trim, the Spark comes with modern conveniences that rival those on bigger and more expensive cars. A fold-down rear bench seat increases functionality, as does its standard smartphone integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It's also nimble around turns yet comfortable enough for longer trips.
But to be frugal, efficient and small means some aspects must be compromised. For the Spark, that's in its acceleration — which is slow even for this class of car — and total usable cargo space. There's very little room behind the rear seats. And while the rear seats are comfortable, taller adults may brush their heads up against the roof.
Generally, though, you should be pleased with Chevy's Spark if you're looking for affordable urban-oriented transportation.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Trim tested
Driving
Comfort
Interior
Utility
Technology
Which Spark does Edmunds recommend?
2018 Chevrolet Spark models
The 2018 Chevrolet Spark is available in four trim levels that differ primarily in standard feature content. The Spark LS is a well-equipped base model, and the 1LT adds more features. The 2LT has more convenience and driver assist features, while the Activ model increases ground clearance and tacks on roof rails for a more active lifestyle. All trims come with a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 98 horsepower and 94 pound-feet of torque. The engine drives the front wheels through either a five-speed manual transmission or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
